Technical Overview

IBOC – In-Band On-Channel digital audio broadcasting – is part of the genius behind iBiquity Digital’s HD Radio™ Technology, which allows AM and FM radio stations to simultaneously broadcast new digital services – audio channels and wireless data – and their traditional analog signal in their current spectrum. Therefore, existing radio stations can go digital without moving to a different frequency.

HD Radio Technology provides for enhanced sound fidelity and improved reception, eliminating the static, hiss, pops and fades associated with today's radio caused by conditions known as multipath, noise and interference.

HD Radio Technology enables radios to be “backward and forward” compatible, allowing HD Radio receivers to receive traditional analog broadcasts from stations that have yet to upgrade and digital broadcasts from stations that have already upgraded. Current analog radios will continue to receive the analog portion of the broadcast, allowing for a smooth transition to a digital world.

Attention to detail in the following areas will make the adoption of HD Radio Technology a rewarding experience for listeners and the station engineer.

There are many companies making broadcast equipment. For an abbreviated list of these companies, click here.